Former US Women’s Soccer Star Megan Rapinoe Defends Controversial Player Barbra Banda
Former US Women’s soccer star Megan Rapinoe has defended Barbra Banda, who was named the Women’s Footballer of The Year by the BBC despite controversy surrounding her eligibility. Banda withdrew from the Zambian squad for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco in 2022 after failing to meet sex eligibility requirements.
Despite the controversy, Banda has continued to play for the Orlando Pride in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), where she is the second-leading scorer this season. Rapinoe, who has been a staunch advocate for LGBTQ rights and trans-inclusion in women’s sports, spoke out in support of Banda on her Instagram story.
“You’ve thrilled, entertained and inspired us, and the world, all year long,” Rapinoe wrote. “This is so deserved as is every bit of your success. You stand so much taller than the tiny people trying to tear you down.”
Banda has faced criticism over her eligibility, but Rapinoe is not among those criticizing her. The two-time Olympic gold medalist has publicly stated that she would support a transgender female player on the US women’s national team.